David O’Neill

Police are still searching for a ‘very dangerous man’ after a murder in Little Gaddesden yesterday afternoon - and have warned the public not to approach him.

A man in his 60s - previously thought to be in his 70s - was found dead at a Nettleden Road home at 3.30pm on Saturday. As second man in his 80s was rushed to hospital with injuries that are not life-threatening.

Police previously released a picture of 55-year-old Ian John McLoughin, also known as Ian John Baker, who they want to speak to about the murder.

Det Chief Insp Martin Brunning said: “The nature of this murder investigation is one of significant violence and until he is caught the public are asked not to approach him as he is a very dangerous man.

“Please contact the police immediately on the 999 emergency number.”

Police now believe McLoughlin has a large stash of £50 and £20 notes, which he may be spending or trying to conceal.

Mr Brunning, from the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Major Crime Unit, is now leading the murder investigation.

He said that police are now conducting searches in the Little Gaddesden area, and that these searches will continue for some time.

He said: “These are initial stages of the investigation. However, we urgently want to speak to Ian McLoughlin in connection with this offence.

“We now have an update to the description of what he was wearing on the day. He is described as being a white male, around 6ft tall with greying hair.

“That day he was believed to be wearing sunglasses, blue jeans or possibly three quarter length trousers and a dark, blue, light blue and white checked short sleeved shirt with a button down collar. He is of average build.”

The murder was in a quiet, residential part of Nettleden Road and police believe others in the area may have seen or heard suspicious activity.

If can help police with their investigation, phone the non-emergency number 101, quoting Operation Acari, or phone Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.